It's OK to feel this way... right?

Since I knew there was a potential for me to be going back to Guatemala, I have been overwhelmed with excitement and joy. Every person and distant Facebook friend of my parents who would ask me about my year off got the same answer, "Yes I am excited, yes I will be safe and no I wont just be eating tacos." 

The answer is still the same, I am so excited and feel super safe going to Guatemala with the Loving Arms organization. Let's face it, as I am counting down the days for my next 9 months it has become more real and for sure more frightening. I am frustrated with myself that the little things are what I am getting caught up on, "What if my Iphone charger breaks?" or even worse "What if I run out of chocolate almond fudge cliff bars?!". Just like that it becomes really easy for me to forget my reasons for going and serving in Parramos in the first place...so I will list the reasons below! 

My Honest Reasons for Serving in Guatemala:

• I have fallen in love with the people and culture 

• I hope to grow in my faith, with and through God

• I hope this year will further validate my hope to pursue a career as a teacher in North America. 

• I look forward to gaining life experience 

• I have a heart for serving others, especially children

• I believe in Loving Arm's mission to transform lives of the people they serve in Guatemala 

I think it is important for me to continue to remind myself of these reasons as I prepare in the next few days. In preparation for this experience, I came across this Bible verse that I now hold very close and dear to my heart as I begin this new chapter.

Isaiah 41 : 10 

So do not fear, for I am with you;
    do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

It is so good following a God who is real cool and reaaaaal faithful. Overall, I am so grateful for this opportunity and will be for sure triple stocking my chocolate almond fudge cliff bars.